Forest fire rages unchecked in Konnakkad-Kommadi area of Kerala’s Kasaragod; efforts on to protect habitations

A forest fire that broke out in the Konnakkad-Kommadi forest area under Balal panchayat in Kasaragod, Kerala, around 10 pm on Wednesday remains uncontrolled, with authorities continuing efforts to prevent it from spreading to nearby residential areas.

Forest officials, Fire and Rescue Services personnel and local residents are jointly engaged in operations to contain the blaze. Two fire units from Kanhanagad and Kuttikol have reached the spot. However, firefighting has been hampered by the hilly terrain, which prevents fire tenders from accessing the core affected area directly.

Technical challenges

Officials said technical challenges in transporting water to elevated regions are further complicating efforts to douse the flames. Local residents have joined hands with forest authorities to create fire lines and restrict the spread of the blaze.

Authorities said the exact extent of the damage and the cause of the fire are yet to be ascertained.